Morning Must Reads: April 21

“A shootout at a checkpoint run by pro-Russian militants near the town of Slovyansk left at least three people dead on Sunday, highlighting the fraying here in eastern Ukraine of a truce reached days earlier by diplomats in Geneva.” [NYT]

“Russia on Monday accused Ukraine of flouting an international accord meant to diffuse the crisis over its separatist east, as US Vice President Joe Biden was to about to arrive in Kiev in a show of support for its pro-Western leaders.” [AFP]

Proud host Hopkinton prepares for Marathon like no other [Boston Globe]

More from the Globe: “On the day before the first Boston Marathon since the bombings, Boston was awash with sunshine and determination, even as memories of last year cast an occasional shadow on the city’s festive spirit. Easter coincided with the most emotional Boston Marathon eve in the 118-year history of the celebrated event, and the Christian story of Jesus’ resurrection mirrored a sense of resilience.” [Boston Globe]

During Asia trip, Obama will renew effort to rebalance U.S. relationship with the region [Washington Post]

“The latest delay to a final decision on the Keystone XL oil pipeline will reinforce a White House strategy to energize President Barack Obama’s liberal-leaning base before fall elections in which Democrats risk losing control of the U.S. Senate.” [Reuters]

From the AP: “…the long-serving governor known for his Texas swagger is now the focus of a grand jury investigation that could cause more difficulty than any adversary has. What should have been a political victory lap for Perry could now wind up in a final tussle that has implications for his political future.” [AP]